Moving to Africa in 7 months

[christylynne23]

I'm Christy and I'm 100% talentless and have no sense of rhythm. However I'm moving to Kenya this upcoming January and absolutely love the sound of the Djembe ~ so I'm trying to learn. I've never had a talent or skill in music, sports, dance, or pretty much anything... but I've also never found something I've actually wanted to be skilled in, until now. I'm hoping to learn even if it's just a little bit, however I'm not very good because I tend to think too much instead of listening to the beat. I hope this website can help me learn!

[michi]

Hi Christy, and welcome!

Don't worry about talent or anything. Just start playing and see what happens.

Kenya isn't exactly djembe heartland. However, the djembe is so widespread now that you may well be able to find teachers there. Also, while you are there, I would take the opportunity to check out the traditional percussion of Kenya. They have their own rhythms and traditions, and I'm sure that there will be tons to learn!

Cheers,

Michi.

[rachelnguyen]

And be sure to come back here and tell us about what you are learning!

Just a note on talent/rhythm, etc: I can't tell you how many people come to djembe class thinking they have 'natural rhythm' and expecting it to be easy. When they get their butts kicked, they inevitably quit in frustration. If you go in expecting to be challenged and willing to learn, you are much more likely to get something out of it. So as far as I can tell, you are way ahead of the game because you know it is going to be challenging, LOL.

Enjoy. Don't worry about how long it takes. Trust that if you stick to it, you WILL improve. And remember that hard work, practice and dedication go a long way towards success. Natural talent only helps if you are teachable.

Rachel

[michi]

I can't tell you how many people come to djembe class thinking they have 'natural rhythm' and expecting it to be easy. When they get their butts kicked, they inevitably quit in frustration. If you go in expecting to be challenged and willing to learn, you are much more likely to get something out of it. So as far as I can tell, you are way ahead of the game because you know it is going to be challenging, LOL.

Wise words, Rachel!

Michi.

[Waraba]

I'm with Michi in that Kenya will have its own amazing music. Who knows what you will find there. There may be some djembe folk, but don't try to fit a square peg in a round hole. Whatever THEY are leaders in, you should follow.

[Waraba]

...but I did just find a trio of djembe/dundun players in Kenya, and they were doing just fine. Search Kenya music on YouTube and you'll find them.

Aside from that, I'm seeing some guitar, which according to Wikipedia is a big big deal in Kenya. Aside from that, there was a lot of Western style music, from gospel to hiphop.

[Waraba]

...so, you should enjoy your trip and follow your heart.